Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta -- Bring Your Camera!

Albuquerque, New Mexico; Santa Fe, New Mexico

October 5-10, 6 Days, 8 Meals

Albuquerque and Santa Fe are a rich blend of
multiculturalism, natural beauty and profound history. This is
your chance to join Van Galder, along with Collette Tours, to
experience one of the world's most photographed events.

Day 1

ALBUQUERQUE: Jet away to New Mexico, a true "land of enchantment!" Tonight, you will get to know your fellow travelers during a delicious welcome dinner.

D

Day 2

ALBUQUERQUE'S INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA: Rise and shine! Join the excitement early this morning as over 600 balloons launch in two remarkable waves creating one of the most spectacular displays of sound and color in all of aviation.

OLD TOWN ALBUQUERQUE: Savor the unique fusion of Mexican, Native American and Spanish heritages while touring the area, exploring the shops, and dining in the local restaurants.

B

Day 3

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND HISTORY: Docent-led tour through the history of nuclear technology, including details of the Manhattan Project.

INDIAN PUEBLO CULTURAL CENTER: Visit the cultural center taht highlights the local and ntaional Native American artists of the 19 Pueblos as they strive to preserve their culture.

BALLOON FIESTA: Stroll the fiesta by moonlight, shopping for a memorable souvenir, enjoying festival food, and experiencing the balloon glow as all of the balloons light up their burners at once!

B

Day 4

TURQUOISE TRAIL: Travel the same roads Spanish Missionaries explored, learn where battles were fought, and se where prehistoric people lived, while taking in the stunning views as we make our way to Santa Fe.

MADRID: Explore this quaint old mining-town-turned-creative hotspot with shops and galleries.

SANTA FE PLAZA: Tour the plaza like a local, as a tour guide escorts us through the plaza, before giving time to explore the art museums and shops.

B, D

Day 5

SANTA FE: Art studios, museums, shops, and local culture -- so much to do! Today is yours to see Santa Fe your way!

**OPTIONAL EXCURSION/TAOS PUEBLOS: Be escorted through the only Native American village designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark. Learn the tribe's way of life, and see the multi-storied adobe buildings that have been inhabited for more than 1,000 years.

SANTE FE SCHOOL OF COOKING: Watch an expert chef create a delicious southwest meal for you, right before your eyes.

B, D

Day 6

The time has come to depart this beautifully cultured area, taking a multitude of colorful memories home.

B

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner

DEPOSIT: $500 per person at time of reservation; final
payment due July 30, 2018. Once payments have been received,
stringent cancellation penalties apply.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Optional, but highly recommended.
Available at booking for $240 per person.

ACTIVITY LEVEL 3 / HEAVY WALKING: Physical stamina required.
Stair climbing, longer periods of walking and/or standing may
be involved, along with higher elevations and longer days.
Participants must be able to keep up with group.